A Full 3D Mixed Hybrid Finite Element Model of Superabsorbent Polymers

C. Yu, K. Malakpoor, S. Leszczynski, J. M. Huyghe

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) are cross-linked polymer networks with large negatively charged ion groups attached to the solid matrix (polymer chains). By the presence of these large negatively charged ion groups, Donnan osmotic pressure difference rises in and outside of the gel. The Donnan osmotic pressure difference is, as a matter of fact, the main cause for the exceptional swelling ability of SAPs. In this study, we present a dynamic mixed hybrid finite element (MHFE) model in three dimensional setting for the simulation of the finite swelling of SAPs. In this model, the normal flux is approximated using Raviart-Thomas elements, which conserve mass both locally and globally. The solid part is assumed to be isotropic and hyperelastic under isothermal conditions. The transient simulation results are verified with a semi-analytical solution in one dimension; while the 3D equilibrium results in the case of a spherical geometry are verified against the analytical solutions.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationPoromechanics 2017 - Proceedings of the 6th Biot Conference on Poromechanics
EditorsPatrick Dangla, Jean-Michel Pereira, Siavash Ghabezloo, Matthieu Vandamme
PublisherAmerican Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Pages362-369
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9780784480779
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2017
Externally publishedYes
Event6th Biot Conference on Poromechanics, Poromechanics 2017 - Paris, France
Duration: 9 Jul 201713 Jul 2017

Publication series

NamePoromechanics 2017 - Proceedings of the 6th Biot Conference on Poromechanics

Conference

Conference6th Biot Conference on Poromechanics, Poromechanics 2017
Country/TerritoryFrance
CityParis
Period9/07/1713/07/17

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